Middle East and North Africa Edition
EUROPEAN STRATEGY Concern over low tourism arrivals during Ramadan has prompted European destinations to focus on marketing spring and autumn holidays to the Middle Eastern market, with strong results showing in markets such as Austria and Germany.
New tourism initiatives, including the cancellation of entry visa requirements for Turkey and Iran, have led to a 47 percent increase in tourism to Syria over the first eight months of 2010. With USD10.36 billion currently invested in new projects across the country, Syria’s public and private sectors are aggressively pursuing growth as part of a new five year development plan.
4 DOHA MOTOR SHOW Qatar Tourism Authority, in partnership with Q.Media Events and GL Events, has unveiled a major new motor show to be held in Doha in early 2011. The show is expected to boost Qatar’s growing sports and conference tourism sectors.
5 In This Issue Market Update Accommodation News Air Travel News International News Agents’ Corner Travel Tips Travel Talk Who’s Moved Rendezvous Events OCTOBER 9, 2010
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SYRIA
Steps Up
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TRAVEL TRADE WEEKLY Deputy Editor Laura Warne
AHIC Board Positive about MENA Investment Key members of the Arabian Hotel Investment Conference (AHIC) advisory board have expressed hope that the sector will see solid improvement before next year’s AHIC event, to be held in May.
Journalist Louis Dillon Savage Design & Layout Elina Pericleous Sales & Marketing Marianna Tsiamas Evelina Hadjigeorgiou Directors Andreas Constantinides Mary Kammitsi Headquarters P.O. Box 25255 Nicosia 1308 Cyprus Tel: +35722820888 Fax: +35722318958 Website www.traveltradeweekly.travel Emails info@traveltradeweekly.travel editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel sales@traveltradeweekly.travel
MENA Exchange Rates Accurate as of 07/10/2010
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he MENA region is already witnessing a stabilisation in average daily rates, according to Jalil Mekouar, managing director of Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels MEA. However, Mekouar noted that market conditions continued to impact performance in Abu Dhabi, Doha and Muscat. “The uncertain economic outlook will continue to have an impact in the short term, but the region remains an attractive destination for investment and the market remains robust for astute investors looking to potentially access medium to long term returns,” said Mekouar. “The MENA markets have recently witnessed the construction of a large number of hotel and hospitality-related developments, though many projects have been delayed or cancelled due to the global economic downturn. “Nevertheless, the supply pipeline is still significant, with the region’s
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The uncertain economic outlook will continue to have an impact in the short term, but the region remains an attractive destination for investment
Accor Pulls Out of Lucien Barriere IPO
Currencies shown in red are fixed against the US Dollar COUNTRY UAE (AED) Egypt (EGP) Saudi Arabia (SAR) Lebanon (LBP) Bahrain (BHD) Jordan ( JOD) Syria (SYP) Kuwait (KWD) Qatar (QAR) Oman (OMR) Tunisia (TND) Morocco (MAD) Iran (IRR) Yemen (YER) Algeria (DZD) Libya (LYD)
hotel room supply poised to increase from 640,000 rooms to 730,000 rooms over the next five years.” While a number of GCC markets have noted declines in hotel performance, North Africa and the Levant are seeing a strong upturn, largely due to limited growth in supply. Jonathon Worsley, chairman of Bench Events, said investment was beginning to increase, which was in line with AHIC 2010’s projections for a sustained recovery. “We are looking forward to AHIC 2011, where we hope that the anticipated recovery in market conditions will have started to filter through to the hotel and hospitality sector.” AHIC 2011 will take place at Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai, between April 30 and May 2.
1USD= 3.69 5.70 3.75 1501 0.37 0.70 46 0.28 3.64 0.38 1.39 8.05 10,510 215.5 73.86 1.23
Accor has withdrawn its offer to sell a 49 percent share in Groupe Lucien Barriere at the latter’s initial public offering (IPO). Gilles Pélisson, CEO of Accor, said the IPO has not received the expected level of interest from investors, and that Accor was still able to pursue its expansion plans without the revenue from the sale. “Under these conditions, and given the quality of Groupe Lucien Barrière’s assets and our confidence in the company’s future, we feel that it is preferable for Accor shareholders to retain our stake,” he said. “In light of our sound financial structure, this will not have any impact on the pursuit of our objectives.” Groupe Lucien Barriere operates a number of luxury hotels and casinos in France and North Africa. The Lucien Barriere sale was planned as part of an ongoing asset divestment by Accor, planned to run its course from 2010 to 2013. OCTOBER 9, 2010
Relaxed Visa Requirements Boost Syrian Tourism Industry New tourism initiatives, including the cancellation of entry visa requirements for Turkey and Iran, have led to a 47 percent increase in tourism to Syria over the first eight months of 2010, according to the country’s Ministry of Tourism.
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etween January and the end of August this year, Turkish tourists to Syria increased by 161 percent and Iranian tourists have increased by 103 percent. Total tourist arrivals to Syria grew by 47 percent during the same period, reaching 6.5 million visitors, compared to 4.4 in 2009. The increase has been driven largely by land arrivals, which have increased to 5.4 million so far this year, compared to 3.6 million during the first eight months of 2009. Air and sea arrivals are also up. Overall, Arab tourists accounted for the
largest group of visitors, with 3.31 million arrivals, followed by foreign tourists and expatriate Syrians. Internationally, the country is seeing increased interest from key global markets, including China, Russia, Italy, the Netherlands, France and the UK. Day trippers from Lebanon and Turkey are also on the rise, with arrivals growing from 1.1 million in 2009 to 1.21 million this year. The country’s capital, Damascus, and its surrounding countryside remained the most popular tourist destination in early 2010, followed by Syria’s northern and coastal regions.
Palmyra
According to Bassam Samman, CEO of project management company CMCS, current investment projects in Syria total around USD10.36 billion, covering residential, retail, hospitality, leisure, energy and tourism developments. “The Syrian Government is aggressively moving towards achieving the set goals of their five year development plan,” he said.
JITOA Overhauls Web Presence Jordan Inbound Tour Operator Association ( JITOA) has revealed plans for an updated web portal servicing the inbound tour industry in that country. The new portal will improve JITOA’s online offering, with interactive sections dedicated to members, projects, business, media, training and careers. The site will also allow for online events registration and provide a library of documents containing the laws and regulations relevant to tour operators. Mohammad Samih, chairman of JITOA, said the upgrade would make JITOA’s portal a resource for a range of interests. “JITOA’s website will become the website that individuals, companies and executives turn to for information about inbound tourism to Jordan,” he said. The upgrade of web services has been financed by a grant from USAID’s Jordan Tourism Development Project, Siyaha. Ibrahim Osta, chief of party for Siyaha, said modern internet services were an important step in developing Jordan’s tourism industry. “Having a strong online presence is vital to the success of any industry these days, and this applies even more to tourism,” he said. “This is part of efforts to strengthen private associations working in tourism and this initiative will help enhance the marketing and reach of JITOA and its members.” OCTOBER 9, 2010
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European Operators Shift GCC Focus Away from Summer Concern over low tourism arrivals during Ramadan has prompted European destinations to focus on marketing spring and autumn holidays to the Middle Eastern market.
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ccording to Klaus Ehrenbrandtner, Middle East director of the Austrian National Tourist Office, arrivals from the GCC to Austria over the first eight months of 2010 have already exceeded arrivals for the entire year of 2009. “I think all European destinations have been worried about Ramadan moving more and more into main season during the last two years,” he said. “However, we seem to have found the right solution to it: we emphasized how
nice Austria actually is in spring and in autumn and our Middle East guests really love to visit our country during this time now.” Austria has seen an increase of 125 percent in arrivals from the GCC market over the past five years, with growth of 20 percent already shown in 2010. Similarly, the German National Tourist Board noted a 66 percent increase in Gulf tourists in July, compared to the same month last year. Increased flights to both Austria and Germany are expected to drive these figures even higher.
Wings Corporate Travel International group Wings Corporate Travel has entered the Middle Eastern market with the opening of its first office in Dubai. Wings Corporate Travel currently operates a number of offices in South Africa, the US and the UK. The company offers bespoke corporate travel management services across five industry sectors – government, oil and gas, financial services, corporate and marine. According to CEO Tony Sofianos, the company plans to operate a hub in Dubai, along with several regional offices; he named Saudi Arabia and Iraq as potential locations for the future. Sofianos added that the company has already established relationships with many oil and gas, marine and financial services companies in the region.
European destinations have been worried about Ramadan moving more and more into main season
Lake Wildsee, Austria
Tony Sofianos
Travelport Signs New Airline Partnerships for ViewTrip Online Check-In Travelport has boosted its coverage in the region with new airline partnerships. Royal Brunei, Royal Jordanian and Gulf Air have all implemented Travelport’s ViewTrip Online Check-In service. Matthew Hall, vice president of EMEA supplier services at Travelport, said the 4
new partnerships brought the total number of carriers using ViewTrip to 20 worldwide. “We are proud to support our airline partners with a service that saves them money and enhances the overall travel experience,” said Hall. “The fact that we now have carriers from
every region across the globe using ViewTrip is evidence of the tangible benefits of this tool.”
We now have carriers from every region across the globe OCTOBER 9, 2010
New Automotive Exhibition Announced for Qatar Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA), in partnership with Q.Media Events and GL Events, has unveiled a major new motor show to be held in Doha in early 2011.
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atar Motor Show, announced at the Paris Motorshow in France, will run from January 26-29, 2011. Olivier Ferraton, CEO of GL, said the event would be assisted by his company’s Italian branch, which specialises in the automotive sector. Giada Michetti, CEO of GL Events Italia, noted Qatar’s economic strength as a factor in favour of a specialty motor show for the country. “Qatar is attracting important investments and is becoming a tourist and cosmopolitan destination, fusing tradition and innovation; in fact even last year during a period of deep world economic crisis, Qatar marked an economic growth of nine percent,” she said. “The exhibition at its first edition is already a premium international auto show and an appointment for the international automotive sector in Middle East, where the car market grew by an average 12 percent in 2010.” Ahmed Al Nuaimi, chairman of QTA, said the show would build on Qatar’s established sports and conference tourism sectors. According to QTA, the automotive sector in GCC markets is particularly strong, registering a nine percent growth in retail sales between July 2009 and 2010. Sheikh Al Hussain Bin Ali Bin OCTOBER 9, 2010
Ahmad Al Thani, CEO of Q.Media, said the show would act as an annual draw for both domestic and regional tourism. “By next January, when we launch the inaugural Qatar Motor Show, we will set
an impressive benchmark for an event that will surely become a tradition, and that all residents of Qatar as well as visitors from around the region and the world, will be able to enjoy for years to come,” he said.
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- Accommodation
Rotana’s Second Fujairah Property Targets Long Stay Market Rotana has increased its UAE portfolio to 27 properties with the opening of Nour Arjaan by Rotana in Fujairah.
T Omer Kaddouri
he new property marks the seventh Arjaan branded property in the UAE and Rotana’s second hotel in Fujairah. Omer Kaddouri, chief operating officer of Rotana, said the hotel would target a broad market base, including business and leisure travellers, as well as families looking for long term stays during home relocation. “The 28-floor first class property, Nour Arjaan by Rotana, has been developed
with both long-term guests and families in mind,” he said. “The total number of 7,130 rooms managed by Rotana in the UAE only confirms Rotana’s strong dedication in delivering premium hospitality and services to provide guests with the ultimate choice for a complete accommodation experience.” Nour Arjaan by Rotana is located close to Fujairah International Airport. The hotel features 225 rooms, plus meeting rooms and three food and beverage outlets.
Al Taameer Real Estate Investment’s MENA Update Al Taameer Real Estate Investment has released active pipeline figures for the MENA region, showing 126,273 hotel rooms currently under development. The luxury and upper scale segment accounts for 48.7 percent of this pipeline; regionally, the UAE and Saudi Arabia are leading the development
charge, jointly accounting for 58 percent of the total active pipeline. According to Al Taameer, the number of hotel rooms and hotels in the UAE increased by 16 percent and seven percent respectively over the first half of 2010, with 566 hotels now active in the country.
Dubai has retained its ranking as top tourist destination in the MENA region, with a nine percent increase in tourist numbers during the first half of 2010. Around 6,700 rooms have opened in Dubai since January 2010, according to Al Taameer, with a further 3,000 expected to come before the end of the year.
Phoenicia InterContinental Beirut Refurbishment Continues Phoenicia InterContinental Beirut is pursuing a full refurbishment programme, citing rising competition, the introduction of international standards and increasing expectations of consumers as key factors in the decision. Designers Martin Hulbert of Fox Linton, Inge Moore and Summer Williams are tasked with overhauling the hotel – a process that is already underway. Initial changes to the property have included the launch of Amethyste Lounge in May and the autumn unveiling of the newly refurbished Eau de Vie Restaurant Lounge. Ahead, the hotel plans to transform each room, suite, restaurant and banquet hall in the property. A completion date for the ongoing project has not been announced. 6
Amethyste Lounge, Phoenicia InterContinental Beirut OCTOBER 9, 2010
- Accommodation
Marriott Revamps Jordan Property, Adds Two Properties to Saudi Arabian Portfolio The Middle East remains one of Marriott International’s strongest regions for development outside the US, with the company recently signing two new properties in Saudi Arabia and completing a major overhaul of an existing property in Jordan. Jordan Renovation Jordan Valley Marriott Dead Sea Resort and Spa has completed an extensive guestroom renovation, valued at more than USD2 million. The refurbished guestrooms feature new carpets and finishes, while the hotel’s duplex suites have been given a complete makeover, featuring balconies with views of the Dead Sea. Technological developments at the hotel feature dual functionality packages, allowing guests to watch television and use the screen as a laptop monitor at the same time; wired and wireless internet options are available, along with plug-in technology for MP3 players and other audio or video devices. Marriott International has a new property under construction in Aqaba, which will bring the company’s Jordanian portfolio to four hotels.
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Jordan Valley Marriott Dead Sea Resort and Spa
Saudi Arabia Signings Marriott finalised management agreements for two new hotels on Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast, owned and developed by Abdulrahman Saad Al-Rashid and Sons Company. The hotels are located in twin towers in a larger mixed use development which encompasses a 58,000m2 shopping mall. One property will become the fourth Courtyard Hotel by Marriott in the Middle East, while the second will mark the regional debut of the company’s extended stay Residence Inn banner. Ed Fuller, managing director of international lodging for Marriott, said the properties would benefit from their association with the mall, and also their proximity to the Farazan Archipelago, noted for its coral reefs. Sulaiman Al Rashid, deputy general manager of Abdulrahman Saad Al-Rashid and Sons, said the hotels would introduce higher standards to the rapidly developing southern province of Jizan. The Residence Inn will offer 83 apartments, ranging from studios to bedroom apartments, featuring full kitchen facilities. The Courtyard property will house 129 rooms including 15 junior suites. Saudi Arabia has already been a locus of intensive interest from Marriott, with the company already operating three hotels and claiming three more in development. Fuller said Marriott was attracted to the strong growth projected for the country over coming years. “We’re thrilled by the continued expansion of our lodging portfolio in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and to participate in the economic development of Jizan,” he said. “Tourism in the kingdom has strong growth potential with an average increase of 6.5 percent year-over-year projected through 2014. OCTOBER 9, 2010
- Air Travel
Qatar Airways Secures Expansion Rights in Germany, Flights to Stuttgart Approved Qatar Airways will commence flights to Stuttgart, Germany in March 2011. The new route will become the carrier’s fourth into Germany.
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he airline has also received approval from German regulators to increase capacity on its existing timetable to Munich. Stuttgart will be served thrice weekly by single aisle Airbus A319 aircraft configured with business and economy classes. According to Akbar Al Baker, CEO of Qatar Airways, the airline has been waiting for a nod to its expansion in Germany for some time. “Securing Stuttgart and stepping up frequency to Munich, one of our most Although Germany represents one of the popular German routes, is a great boon for most significant source markets for world the airline,” he said. tourism, Al Baker said too few flights connect the country to the Arabian Gulf. The market is there and “I would like to extend my thanks to the Qatar Airways has been German authorities for providing Qatar Airways with greater access to Germany, eager to capitalise on it which has been a largely underserved “The market is there and Qatar Airways market from the Gulf,” he said. has been eager to capitalise on it, so we Stuttgart has a population of look forward to further strengthening our approximately 600,000 and is notable for serving as the epicentre of Germany’s position in Germany during 2011.”
Akbar Al Baker
automotive industry. Both Porsche and Mercedes-Benz are headquartered in the city.
Securing Stuttgart and stepping up frequency to Munich, one of our most popular German routes, is a great boon for the airline
Humanitarian Aviation Safety Conference to be Held in Sharjah Representatives of the global aviation industry will come together in Sharjah from October 11 to 12 for the second Global Aviation Safety Conference for Humanitarian Air Service. The conference is an initiative of the World Food Programme (WFP) and is being held in partnership with the government of Sharjah. According to WFP, aviation safety is particularly important in humanitarian situations, which often entail unpredictable conditions and potentially 10
volatile situations. Captain Samir Sajet, regional aviation safety officer for Asia and the Middle East at WFP, said the conference would help establish practices for dealing with the heightened challenges of humanitarian aviation. “Because we are working in difficult environments and remote areas, we have additional safety requirements that are above international requirements,” he said. “As such, apart from conducting safety monitoring and control of our operations, organising conferences such as the 2nd
Global Aviation Safety Conference is a crucial part of our job in order to boost aviation safety and identify main safety concerns in specific areas and how we can share such information in order to mitigate existing risks.”
We have additional safety requirements that are above international requirements OCTOBER 9, 2010
- Air Travel Saudi Arabia, Egypt and UAE Elected to ICAO’s Ruling Council Saudi Arabia, Egypt and the UAE have all successfully bid for re-election to the ruling council of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).
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CAO is the United Nations body tasked with encouraging co-operation between the civil aviation regulators of the world’s states. The council is divided into three levels, with the first reserved for those countries of most importance to civil aviation; the second is for the countries who provide the bulk of aviation infrastructure and the third is open to all other countries as an assurance of fair geographical representation. Both Saudi Arabia and Egypt have gained seats in the second tier, while the UAE was placed in the third category, despite the size of its civil aviation sector. Although Saeed Al Mansouri, chairman of UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), said his country’s civil aviation sector was the largest in the region, the UAE remains a relative newcomer to the council, receiving its first seat at the last assembly in 2007. Al Mansouri said the bid reflected a year-long process of lobbying.
a greater influence over international aviation policy, Al Mansouri said. “This is a big achievement for the UAE and its civil aviation sector,” he said. “It will enhance the UAE’s image in this sector and encourage it to make more initiatives and implement aviation
security, safety and environment plans worldwide.” The UAE’s permanent representative on the council, Captain Aysha Al Hamli, is the first UAE national to fill the role, and the youngest member of the council overall. The UAE first joined ICAO in 1972.
This is a big achievement for the UAE and its civil aviation sector “The UAE was able to make this achievement and win the trust of countries around the world because of the leading and active role it plays in civil aviation internationally,” he said. The successful bid gives the UAE OCTOBER 9, 2010
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- International
Russians Announce Plans for First Space Hotel A pair of Russian aerospace companies, Orbital Technologies and Rocket and Space Corporation Energia (RSC Energia), have formed a partnership to construct and launch the world’s first privately operated space station.
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ubbed a space hotel by many media reports, the Commercial Space Station (CSS) will provide a range of services. According to Sergey Kostenko, CEO of Orbital Technologies, those services include recreational stays. “Of course, some parties are interested in short duration stays on the station for enjoyment,” he said. Although the facility will cater to recreational space tourism, its first role is to make space based research and development available on a commercial basis.
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However, Kostenko noted that the station would make an ideal base for space travellers interested in expeditions further afield. “The CSS will be a true gateway to the rest of the solar system,” he said. “A short stopover at our station will be the perfect beginning of a manned circumlunar flight.” Current designs for the station accommodate up to seven guests or crew members, and allow for compatibility with all commercially developed space vehicles. Vitaly Lopota, president of RSC Energia, said his company had been working on the designs for several years, and would be
able to prepare for launch in a short amount of time.
The CSS will be a true gateway to the rest of the solar system
Cross-section of the CSS
OCTOBER 9, 2010
- International
Global Tourism Groups Eye Japanese Market The inaugural Blossom Japan travel exhibition, to be held in January 2011, has signed a host of new exhibitors from around the world.
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ocal Japanese exhibitors to join the ranks include Exquisite Ryokans, The Terrace Hotels, travel service provider KNT and Plan Do See Inc. International interest has come from Fancourt, a business and leisure resort in South Africa, and destination management company dmAfrica. Local buyers, including Robert Rann, president of Refined Resort Residences, say they are keen to forge new relationships with these international players. Refined Resort Residences is a property development group, representing a
global portfolio of luxury branded hotels and resorts. “We are very much looking forward to meeting and furthering long-lasting relationships with both international and Japanese luxury resort and hotel developers and operators,” said Rann. “Our clients are looking for travel experiences in unique destinations with captivating surroundings. “They delight in branded luxuries of the highest standard, including accommodations that offer impeccable attention to detail, personalised service, luxurious décor, as well as a commitment to the environment.”
Japan
Our clients are looking for travel experiences in unique destinations with captivating surroundings
Ryanair Boss Calls for Strike Ban Following air traffic controller strikes in France, Spain and Belgium, low cost airline Ryanair has lobbied the European Commission to abolish controllers’ right to strike. The strikes included general strikes in France and Spain as well as an air traffic controller specific strike in Belgium, which was carried out without warning. According to Belgocontrol, Belgium’s air traffic regulator, air traffic controllers walked off the job without warning on the morning of September 28, issuing no demands and refusing to return to work until 10pm that evening. Ryanair maintains its headquarters and primary hub in Belgium, leaving the airline especially vulnerable to the flash strike. In response, Michael O’Leary, CEO of Ryanair, has called for dramatic policy shifts from the European Commission, including: a ban on air traffic control strikes; the termination of controllers who participate in strikes; deregulation of air traffic control (ATC) services; and the abolishment of airline responsibilities of care, which require airlines to compensate passengers for cancellations and delays. “The single greatest cause of ATC delays are EU government owned and mismanaged ATC services,” he said. “It’s time the ‘right to strike’ within this essential service was removed, like it is in the US: if these people don’t want to work, then replace them with military and other air traffic controllers who do wish to work.” OCTOBER 9, 2010
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Travco’s Egyptian Expansion Destination management company Travco has opened a new branch in Port Said, as part of its continued expansion across Egypt. The new office brings Travco’s total branches in the country to 16; further openings are expected in Giza and Cairo. Travco’s Port Said branch will serve both individuals and groups, offering services that include travel packages, ticketing, hotel and cruise reservations and pilgrimage services.
Agent’s Insight Name: Tony Sofianos Position: CEO Company: Wings Corporate Travel Location: South Africa Who are your highest spending clients? Offshore and marine corporate clients are our highest spending market. This industry is very operationally driven and requires travel that can’t be replaced by videoconferencing. It also involves extended rotational travel for several months at a time. The biggest percentage of our business comes from areas such as West Africa, the North Sea and the Middle East.
What are the most popular holiday activities for your clients? Port Said
Amadeus ITP The Amadeus Itinerary Print (ITP) solution for travel agencies has been launched in the MENA region for the first time. The tool is designed to facilitate custom designed itineraries and e-tickets, in line with a travel agency’s existing corporate branding. According to Antoine Medawar, vice president of Amadeus MENA, Amadeus ITP can minimise potential errors and improve efficiency. “The new service can be tailored to suit every travel agency’s needs and provides added convenience to travellers,” said Medawar.
The new service can be tailored to suit every travel agency’s needs
Leisure is not a key sector for us, but we do need to provide it for our corporate clients – because everyone needs to go on holiday. Most of our clients are looking for R&R travel, which is mostly focused on relaxing activities.
When did you get involved in the travel industry and how has it changed since then? I started in 1992 when I was 23, but my background is in finance, so I’ve seen the industry from a different perspective. I think the travel industry has moved away from agencies in favour of destination management companies. It was once driven by commission, but now we are selling a service, which has become a commodity in itself. Technology has obviously had a lot to do with this shift.
Where are you most interested in visiting next and why? I enjoy travelling to Cyprus. The roots of my culture are there and it has everything I need – beaches, the people, energy and balance. However, I will say that as a unique holiday experience, not much compares to ‘the bush’, as we call it in South Africa. To hear the roar of a lion as you’re going to sleep is amazing.
Why is internet booking increasing in popularity? I think the more important aspect to focus on is that we need to embrace technology to enhance our service offerings. There is definitely the space to utilise online bookings; this is fairly easy and there are many tools for agents. But online booking is only one aspect of the range of technology that we can utilise. 14
OCTOBER 9, 2010
Worldwide Survey Shows Travellers Want More Robots Automation, online booking, self service. While it is becoming a cliché that technology is changing the travel industry, it can be difficult to know exactly how these innovations are being picked up by consumers.
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survey undertaken by travel industry IT provider SITA has shown the public reaction to various technological advances in the world of travel. The survey drew on interviews with passengers passing through seven airports at cities around the world, including: Mumbai, India; Beijing, China; Sao Paulo, Brazil; Atlanta, US; Moscow, Russia; Johannesburg, South Africa; and Frankfurt, Germany. A huge 74 percent of all respondents said they booked their holidays online, and the use of airline websites as a hub for all travel
OCTOBER 9, 2010
bookings was also seen to increase (from 21 percent last year to 38 percent in 2010). Demand for automation has grown significantly, with 70 percent of interviewees saying they would prefer automatic boarding gates. Acceptance for automatic security processes, including biometrics like retinal or fingerprint scans, reached 70 percent compared to 58 percent in 2009. Cathy Stam, portfolio marketing director for SITA, noted the increased importance of online booking and automatic check-in systems. “On average, the availability of online booking is the third most important
consideration when arranging a trip,” she said. “Passengers are showing an increasing willingness to use self-service options when available, including for security and border control, as well as boarding. Twothirds of respondents would use kiosks for booking/changing flights, printing bag tags, self-transfer and claiming delayed bags.”
Passengers are showing an increasing willingness to use self-service options when available
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Iftikhar Hamdani
Antje Roeding
Director of Sales and Marketing, Ramada Hotel and Suites Ajman “End consumers are using more online bookings, which is the biggest threat for travel agents and to some extent destination management companies as well. People like to book directly with hotels rather than using a third party in between. In future the percentage of online bookings will increase. Now hotels are more focussed on appearing in such channels to get more exposure and business.”
People like to book directly with hotels rather than using third party
Iftikhar Hamdani
Pramoth Supyen Director, Tourism Authority of Thailand, Dubai and Middle East “Thailand has become a favored destination for Arab travellers, whether seeking medical care or leisure pursuits. Through the hosting of the inaugural Medical Tourism Road Show to the GCC [October 5 to 11], we will showcase Thailand's medical products and services to regional government agencies and officials, as well as to the private sector such as insurance companies and travel agents, providing a unique opportunity for them to meet directly with Thailand's leading practitioners and learn more about the specialisations and expertise we can offer to provide visitors with the best care needed to lead a healthier and fuller life.”
Director, Gulf Marketing and Sales Office, German National Tourist Office “Summer is the most important travel period for tourism to Germany in general, with about 34 percent of foreign overnight stays being generated in the summer months. Most importantly, July and August are traditionally two of the essential months of travel in particular in the Arabian Gulf region. This year, July was an especially successful month, with a rise of 66 percent of Gulf travellers coming to Germany. The sharp growth of incoming tourism from the Gulf to Germany in July contributed significantly to making the summer season of 2010 very successful.”
July and August are traditionally two of the essential months of travel in the Arabian Gulf region
Thailand has become a favored destination for Arab travellers, whether seeking medical care or leisure pursuits Thailand
Antje Roeding
Travel Talk is your space – this is a casual forum for travel industry professionals to discuss current issues and share stories. We want to hear from you, so send your comments, questions, frustrations and observations to editorial@traveltradeweekly.travel 16
OCTOBER 9, 2010
Hafeez Azeem and Ahmed Hossam
Ahmed Salah
Amadeus Gulf has appointed two new executives to its sales team. Hafeez Azeem has been appointed as director of sales for Amadeus Gulf, where he will be responsible for the UAE, Bahrain and Oman. Azeem was previously employed as regional business development manager for Flydubai. He has more than 15 years of international experience and has previously worked for Emirates and KLM airlines. Azeem holds a master’s degree in business administration. Amadeus has appointed Ahmed Hossam as sales manager for Abu Dhabi. Hossam has been a key account manager for Amadeus Egypt since 2007. He has 10 years of sales experience in the travel, aviation and global distribution system industries.
Rezidor Hotel Group has appointed Ahmed Salah as director of finance for Radisson Blu Hotel Alexandria in Egypt. Salah has more than 19 years of experience with international hotel chains. His career history has included stints with Mövenpick Hotels and Resorts as well as various properties in Saudi Arabia and Mauritius.
Joe Batshoun
Novotel Network
The Cove Rotana Resort in Ras Al Khaimah has appointed Joe Batshoun as general manager. Batshoun has 26 years of experience in the industry and has worked across Europe, the Middle East and the US. Before joining Rotana in 2009, he was area general manager for Marriott and general manager of a JW Marriott property in Houston, Texas. Batshoun also headed up the pre-opening team of Yas Island Rotana and Centro Yas Island. In his new role, he plans to extend the market reach of The Cove Rotana Resort by targeting new international markets.
Joe Batshoun
Novotel has appointed three new general managers for its hotel network in the Middle East. Oreste Traetto has been appointed general manager of Novotel and Ibis Deira City Centre in Dubai. Traetto was previously employed as general manager of Novotel Al Dana in Bahrain. He has been with Accor since 2000. Dominique Mercier has been appointed general manager of Novotel Abu Dhabi and the upcoming serviced apartment property, Adagio Al Bustan Abu Dhabi. Mercier has worked as a general manager in properties across Qatar, Indonesia, the UAE, Myanmar and the UK. He has been with Accor for 22 years. Pierre Gaudou has been appointed general manager of Novotel Al Dana in Bahrain. He previously headed the Ibis Kuwait property and has been with Accor for 34 years.
Adrian Slater Park Hyatt Dubai has appointed Adrian Slater as general manager. Slater has worked with Hyatt International for more than 20 years. He held the position of banquet sales manager at Hyatt Regency Dubai in the early 1990s, before relocating to Australia. Other postings with Hyatt have included New Zealand, Australia, Guam and South Korea. 18
Ahmed Salah
Raed Rabie Six Senses Resorts and Spas has appointed Raed Rabie as general manager for Evason Ma’In Hot Springs and Six Senses Spa, in Jordan. Rabie has a strong history of hospitality experience and has worked with British Airways, Marriott Group and Hilton International. In his new role, Rabie will be responsible for all operations at the resort. OCTOBER 9, 2010
Q&A with Helmut Meckelburg Helmut Meckelburg, CEO of Safir Hotels and Resorts in Kuwait, spoke to Travel Trade Weekly about the company’s expansion beyond its home country and throughout the region. Travel Trade Weekly: Can you please tell me a little about Safir Hotels and Resorts' mother company, Kuwait Hotels Company? How has this company developed since its inception in 1962? Helmut Meckelburg: Safir Hotels is owned by Kuwait Hotels Company which in itself is part of KIPCO (Kuwait Investment Projects Company), one of Kuwait’s largest privately owned companies with a global presence in real estate, banking, shipping, hospitality and insurances. Kuwait Hotels was founded in 1962 with the main purpose of developing first class, international hotel projects in the region and beyond. Kuwait Hotels Company owns and operates various other businesses, like Kuwait Catering Company, Safat Catering Company, the Pizza2Go restaurant chain, the boutique café brand Cake and Bake, the restaurant chains Dragon Express and Curry House, Safir Support Services and a recent tie up with Lufthansa and its inflight catering service set up in Kuwait. And then of course it is the owner of Safir Hotels, which after its restructuring has now started to aggressively expand.
Travel Trade Weekly: Regionally, what are Safir's key areas of focus for management and development? Helmut Meckelburg: Safir is focused to expand into Saudi Arabia, Oman, UAE, Syria, Lebanon, Turkey, Iraq, Qatar, Libya, Morocco, India, Malaysia, key African countries and certain European destinations. The company presently operates 17 hotels and has another 20 hotels lined up to be developed and operated over the next three years. OCTOBER 9, 2010
As a company we feel that growth is important, however we do not want to take on more than we can handle. It is important for us that the owners know what we as a management company bring to the table, not just a name and fees. In this process we get to understand the hotel owners’ expectations, financially but also in terms of image, co-operation, branding, growth of the asset and so on. Today we are at the stage of our development where we are seriously engaging in the creation of new brands under the Safir name.
Growth is important, however we do not want to take on more than we can handle Travel Trade Weekly: There seems to have been a dramatic rise in hotel management companies within the MENA region over the past couple of years - do you have an opinion on why this is? Helmut Meckelburg: Yes, you are right. There has been a dramatic increase in new management companies in the region. Is this not beautiful? I personally think this increase was long overdue and to be expected. As a customer you want to see a variety of brands and this really has not been the case in any of the GCC. It has to be seen which brands will grow and whose value proposition will be accepted by the customers. Creating a management company is not just putting a few people together and signing management contracts.
Helmut Meckelburg
As long you manage a small amount , it is easy, relatively spoken. But once you have created a brand and a name and with it expectations, you need to have systems and processes in place which not only help to deliver results to owners but which assure that these results happen, with you and without you. On top of the systems and processes you need the right team and talent, the right combination of experience, continuity, reliance and innovation.
Travel Trade Weekly: What are the most important factors for success when it comes to hotel management, particularly in the MENA region? Helmut Meckelburg: There is no single factor and recipe for success. However in my opinion there are two important basic key elements. The first one is people, the second one is product. Success requires both of these ingredients. 19
Aviation Investment Forum to be Held in Iraq in April 2011 A new event for the aviation sector in Iraq has been conceived: the Iraq Airport Expansion, Cargo and Logistics Conference and Exhibition. The inaugural event will take place from April 6 to 7, 2011, in the capital city of the Kurdistan province, Erbil. According to event organisers, Arabian Reach, more than USD150 billion worth of aviation development projects are under consideration in Iraq and the conference is intended to provide an international forum for interested investors.
Raj Menon, spokesperson for the event, said the conference was an ideal opportunity for early movers. “This event has been designed to be a gateway to help businesses enter what is a new beginning for Iraq's targeted market and learn how to be part of the reconstruction of this vital industry," he said. “This is an excellent forum to get in on the ground floor in regards to investment and business opportunities with decision makers in the aviation, airport, cargo and logistics sectors in Iraq and experience
this challenging, but fast growing, emerging market.” According to organisers, the conference has already received interest from regional and global industry players including British Aviation Group, Gulf Ground Handling Association, German Airports Group, and the Middle East Aerospace Consortium (MEAC).
This is an excellent forum to get in on the ground floor
Events Arab Tourism Bourse Travel and Tourism Fair Damascus, Syria, October 19-22 (www.abtfair.com) Aimed at promoting the Syrian tourism industry, attracting new visitors and developing tourism in the region. Hotex Fair Syria Damascus, Syria, October 19-22 (www.hotexfair.com) Fair for Arabic and foreign companies in tourism and travel, including hotels, restaurants and equipment suppliers. Business Travel Show – Dubai Dubai, UAE, October 25-26 (www.businesstravelshowdubai.com) Dedicated event for buyers and bookers of corporate travel in the Middle East, focusing on small and medium sized organisations that book business travel. World Travel Market London, UK, November 8-11 ( www.wtmlondon.com) Global event for the travel industry – four day business to business event promoting a range of destinations and industry sectors to international travel professionals.
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World Green Tourism Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi, UAE, November 22-24 (www.worldgreentourism.ae) Inaugural eco-tourism exhibition, featuring tourism authorities, urban city planners, hotels and resorts, property developers, airlines, tour operators, green product suppliers, universities, museums and heritage site organisations. EIBTM Barcelona, Spain, Nov. 30 – Dec. 2 (www.eibtm.com) Global event for the meetings and events industry, including networking opportunities, professional education seminars and a trade show platform for exhibitors, hosted buyers and trade visitors. International Luxury Travel Market Cannes, France, December 6-9 (www.iltm.net) Annual business to business event for the global luxury travel industry. Showcases destinations and travel experiences, with a programme of networking events and pre-scheduled meetings. Blossom Japan Tokyo, Japan, January 18-21,2011 (www.blossomjapan.com) A new invitation-only luxury travel exhibition focusing on the Japanese market.
OCTOBER 9, 2010